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Want to Wear Shorts to the Office? Here’s How to Make It Work

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You know those steamy summer Mondays that are so hot, you don’t even want to think about putting on dress pants? Well, they’re upon us. This year we’re throwing caution to the wind and rocking shorts to the office (in 100 percent compliance with dress code, mind you). And guess what? We might never go back to chinos. Here are five HR-approved ways to rock the weekend staple during business hours.

How to Wear Shorts Like a Royal This Summer


denim shorts
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Denim Bermuda Shorts + Button-front Shirt

Jeans for casual Friday are nothing new. But a pair of denim Bermuda shorts sure is. Make them more meeting-friendly by tucking in a button-down shirt. Voilà, happy hour- and work-ready.

Get the look: AG shorts ($79); Vince blouse ($275)

aimee song
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Matching Short Suit + Boots

Not quite sure if HR will flag you for showing some leg? Opt for a matching short suit—it’s professional, polished and won’t cause you to sweat to death on your lunch break.

Get the look: Chriselle Lim Collection blazer ($50); Chriselle Lim Collection shorts ($39); Loeffler Randall boots ($450)

white shorts plaid blazer
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

White Shorts + Plaid Blazer + Mules

Things will look business as usual when you’re seated at your desk, but as soon you stand up, everyone will be all, “ooooh.” Your coworkers will only wish that they thought of the same outfit combination.

Get the look: Wit & Wisdom shorts ($58); 1.State blazer ($139); Cult Gaia mules ($325)

bike shorts and blazer
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

Bike Shorts + Oversize Blazer + T-shirt

Okay, bike shorts might not fly in every office environment. But if you can get away with it, we highly suggest trying the trend out with an oversize blazer (like one that covers your bum). You’ll look prepared for your nine-to-five, but feel like you’re still in your PJs.

Get the look: Topshop t-shirt ($18); Spanx bike shorts ($68); Allsaints blazer ($245)

chino shorts1
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Chino Shorts + Utility Shirt + Unstructured Blazer

Another easy choice for more conservative offices: chino shorts. Pair yours with a laid-back utility shirt and a drapey blazer for HR- and happy hour-approved vibes.

Get the look: Vince chino shorts ($165); Topshop shirt ($30); Smythe blazer ($695)

See Ya, Short Shorts—Here’s What’s Taking Over



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Brianna Lapolla formerly held the role of Senior Commerce Editor at PureWow covering all things shopping across beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. Now, she's putting her 12 years of...